Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
The World Championship Hoop Dance Contest — a cornerstone for cultural preservation spotlighting hoop dancing — returns to the Heard Museum for its 35th year this month.
The annual championship attracts more 100 dancers from diverse tribal backgrounds throughout the country who display their masterful skills at the event, carrying on the traditions of hoop dance, according to a press release.
The World Championship Hoop Dance Contest, which is Feb. 15-16, is a culmination of dozens of community members who show up as dedicated staff, emcees, singers, families and supporters including:
- Arena Emcee Dennis Bowen, who has committed over 30 years of live coverage;
- Arena Director Eric Manuelito, who flawlessly orchestrates the competition’s flow; and
- The Northern and Southern Drum Groups, The Cozad Singers and Thunder Boy Singers, providing the heartbeat of the event.
Since the first World Championship hosted at the Heard Museum, this event has continued the profound history of hoop dancing within Indigenous communities. Guests can enjoy delicious food and drink from local vendors and the Heard Museum’s award-winning restaurant. Opportunities to engage in hoop-themed family activities, explore offerings from community partners, and shop official merchandise from the Official Hoop Dance Merch Booth are also available.
